KARGIL, Anayat Ali (KIMS) — The Union Territory of Ladakh achieved a proud milestone at the recently concluded Khelo India Winter Games (Ice Hockey), with the Men’s Ice Hockey Team winning the Bronze Medal and the Women’s Ice Hockey Team securing the Silver Medal at the national level.
The achievement holds special significance as both teams featured strong representation from Kargil, whose players played a decisive role in Ladakh’s success. Displaying exceptional skill, discipline, and teamwork, the athletes proved their mettle against top teams from across the country and brought laurels to the region.
A historic highlight of the tournament was Rigzin Yangdol of Kukshow, who became the first-ever woman ice hockey player from Kargil to captain the Ladakh Women’s Ice Hockey Team. Her leadership on the ice marks a landmark achievement and serves as an inspiration for young girls across the region.
Women players from Kargil included: Rigzin Yangdol (Kukshow – Captain), Rinchen Dozang (Kukshow), Mehroon Nissa (Shargole), Samina Khatoon (Trespon), Hasina Banoo (Wakha), Aqeela Banoo (Karit), and Leela Banoo (Pashkum).
Men players from Kargil included: Mohammad Ali Baba, Sajjad Hussain, Irfan Ali, and Nawaz Ali (all from Pashkum), along with Wasim Billal and Muhaib Mir (both from Drass).
Congratulating the players, General Secretary, District Kargil Olympic Association, Syed Mehraj Uddin Shah, extended heartfelt appreciation to the Kargil players in particular and Team Ladakh in general. He expressed confidence that these athletes will continue to excel in future national and international competitions.
He also congratulated the UT Ladakh Administration, led by Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta, Chief Secretary Ashish Kundra, Administrative Secretary (Sports) Moses Kunzang, Joint Secretary Tahir Hussain Zubdavi, and the entire Khelo India Committee for their consistent support in promoting winter sports and nurturing sporting talent in Ladakh.
The remarkable performance of the Ladakh Ice Hockey teams has not only added to the region’s sporting achievements but has also inspired a new generation of athletes to pursue excellence in winter sports. — (KIMS)